What are the DSM-5 criteria for intellectual disability in terms of deficits?

• A. Deficits in adaptive functioning only.
• B. Onset in adulthood.
• C. Deficits in intellectual functioning and adaptive functioning originating during the developmental period, typically with an IQ around 70 or below, affecting conceptual, social, and practical domains.
• D. Deficits in intellectual functioning only.

Answer: (C)

Intellectual disability is diagnosed when there are significant deficits in both intellectual functioning and adaptive functioning that originate during the developmental period. Intellectual functioning refers to abilities like reasoning, problem-solving, planning, and learning. Adaptive functioning covers practical, conceptual, and social skills needed for everyday life. The DSM-5 describes these deficits as appearing during development (before age 18), with a typical reference point around an IQ of 70 or below as a guideline, though the exact cutoff isn’t the sole determinant and the emphasis is on real-world functioning.

This is why the best option specifies deficits in both intellectual and adaptive functioning, onset during the developmental period, and an IQ around 70 or below affecting conceptual, social, and practical domains. Deficits in adaptive functioning alone don’t capture the intellectual impairment; onset in adulthood contradicts developmental origins; and deficits in intellectual functioning alone omit adaptive challenges.